By Isle of Wight Observer
The Arts Society has launched a new nationwide programme to support local drama groups, and the Isle of Wight branch has already made two awards to Island productions.
Island Chairman Glenys Lloyd-Williams said, “I am so pleased the Arts Society has now embraced drama as an art form. Originally, I applied for a grant for Newchurch Drama Group [NDG] from Head Office, and then our local area committee voted to offer £300 to each society to reach out to drama groups in their own areas. It’s a new venture with new contacts.”
NDG used their grant to stage a sold-out run of “Sherlock Holmes’ Last Case – A Spoof” at Ventnor Fringe this summer, raising funds and attracting new members. Their next production, “The Princess and the Pea”, runs from October 31 to November 1 at Newchurch school hall. For tickets or to get involved, visit their Facebook page or call 07562 050165.
Tide Nor Time Players CIC also received a £300 grant from the Arts Society IW to support “A Clockwork Heart”, an original steampunk musical by Island artist Paul Wilson. The show follows Florence, a reclusive inventor, and Rose, the clockwork woman she brings to life, exploring themes of identity, love and transformation. Fourteen-year-old cast member, Polly Wray, said: “It’s a fantastically creative experience. This funding will really help us bring the show to life.”
The society begins its new season on September 23 at Northwood House, Cowes, with a lecture by Dr John Stevens, on Mughal architecture. New members and visitors welcome – details from iw.observer/iw-arts-society.